Pages

Friday, December 31, 2010

2010 has been a very good year. In many ways it has been the best year ever. In some it hasn't been very good. Still, overall, I am optimistic for better, perhaps to optimistic.

My wife and I were married this year on August 21 (after almost 1-year engagement/planning).

If you haven't met my wife you are missing out. She is the most wonderful and caring person I have ever had in my life.

Moved from Topeka, KS to Austin, TX (Arrived Aug 25).

My Bride I honeymooned along the way in Paola, KS; Tulsa, OK; Oklahoma City, OK and Dallas, TX. While her then 29-year old son drove the U-haul with all our belongings.

I finally sold my home in October.

In November I met Texas Governor Rick Perry at a book signing I attended.

Unemployed for nearly 4 months, I finally get a part-time job in early Dec., to bring some income in.

With me being out of work for 4-months is tough. Even now working only part-time isn't easy either. Still I am optimistic, that we will survive. Over all things could be better. However, I am grateful to have a job. Even if it is only part-time. I am grateful for the gifts I have been given. They truly help more then people realize. No matter how big or small they have been. I don't know what 2011 will bring, but I expect a brighter future. --- go ahead share your thoughts with me now, my ears are open. I'm always eager to hear what you think. follow me on Twitter

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Today I am posting a post originally seen Nov 17, 2007. There are many new people here who have not seen some of my original posts. So I think re-posting some of these can great for those visitors. In addition it gives everyone a new opportunity to comment on those posts. Have you ever gone into a store with the intention of only buying one (1) item and you walked out with several bags full of stuff?

I can remember one time back in about 1990, I carried a cart load of groceries for a customer. Her husband and kids were waiting in the car. The first comment that was made when the door was opened was, "I was going to say, if you had to milk that cow." It is a comment I have heard my own dad say when I was younger to. I knew instantly, that she had said she was just going to grab a gallon of milk. Instead she did her weekly grocery shopping.

The key here is to have a list. Not a list in your head, but a physical list. So that you don't end up buying more then you expected.

The same is true for other shopping adventures as well. Grocery shopping is the obvious one, but you also need a list when shopping for clothes, toiletries, birthdays or even Christmas/Hanukkah. No need to stress this holiday season (or throughout the year) if you will follow the three examples below.

Get together a game plan.

Let's be blunt here. You MUST write down the exact amount of cash that you can spend on gifts, clothes, groceries or whatever. Nothing is magical about it; every family/individual is different. Whatever the REALISTIC amount is for you , is the limit you MUST stick with. It's pretty stupid to go shopping (anywhere) without a plan.

Make a list. Check it twice.

Without a physical list, you are opening yourself up to the risk of overspending. By writing down a list of exactly what you want to buy you are reducing that risk. Once you have a list (especially your Christmas list) look over it multiple times so that you know exactly what you are buying and what for. Doing this will help you avoid all the shinny new toys in the stores.

Flash the cash.

Once you have your list, the next thing to do is to get in your car, and stop at the ATM (or your financial institution) and withdraw the amount of cash you have alloted yourself for that particular shopping trip. In the case of Christmas shopping, when the cash is the gone, your shopping is finished. NEVER pull out the plastic.

When you pay with cash, don't be afraid to ask for a deal. Most people don't get deals when they're shopping because they either don't pay with cash or are too afraid to ask! What's the worse thing that could happen? They might say no. Big deal. At least you tried! Sometimes I like to go into stores and just flash a handful of cold, hard cash. The store employees sure do pay attention to me!

Whoever said you had to buy tons and tons of presents for people anyway?! Enjoying gifts and shopping is all fine and dandy, as long as you stay within your own personal financial boundaries. Make a point to not put gifts and pleasing others above more important things in your life - spending time with loved ones, being in control of your money, and getting out of debt

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

In September of 2007, I wrote a post regarding Jed Clampett's take on personal finance. The same article also appeared in my my newspaper blog post. Today I would like to re-post that article for those who missed either of the first publishing's.As a personal finance blogger, I often talk about my own personal finances. My success and my failures are an open book to everyone who reads this blog. In between the more personal posts I post various tips and occasionally an interview or two.Today, I set down with Jed Clampett to ask how he lives frugally, even with all his millions.

The first thing Jed told me was that last year he switched all of the light bulbs in his Beverly Hills house to compact fluorescents (CFL's). According to Jed, "you will be amazed with over 100 light bulbs in the house, how much this alone saves on our electric bill." He also said, that buying fewer light bulbs over time saves money as well.

While we were on electric use, I asked him about his electric use. Seems he not only turns off the lights when he leaves a room, but unless he is reading, he rarely even turns a light on. However, he admits, that as a elementary school dropout, he rarely reads. He even prefers cooking outside rather then using the electric stove.

While I keep my furnace set around 64 in the winter, Jed tells me that he keeps it around 50. Seems a little chilly for me, but with the nice sunny California weather. Even the chilly nights, probably isn't cold enough to warrant the use of heat for him and his clan anyway.

The thing that surprised me the most, is they have gone hi-tech. With cousin Jethro finally getting into high school, Jethro has become a big fan of the computer and helps his uncle and Granny pay the bills with their banks online bill pay. Not only that they email just about everyone. Saving the family a heap of money on stamps.

Around the house, Jed says he reuses the grocery bags they bring home from the store. Instead of buying trash bags, he said they put the plastic grocery bags in the smaller cans, like in the bathrooms and bedrooms. The paper grocery bags, according to Jed, are reused in the bigger trash cans, like in the kitchen.

of course, that is difficult sometimes, when they don't buy much food. Since they have a nice garden out by the cement pond, and go hutting for possum for meat. He even offered me some possum and greens, which I politely turned down.

Despite all their money, Granny refuses to use a washing machine and dryer. Instead, she still uses a washboard. Hanging the clothes out on the clothes line to dry.

Jed also told me that they don't buy soda pop or buy any water. The water that comes from the faucet is better then any thing they drank before they "moved away from there."

Finally, he said the one thing he learned before striking it rich and moving away from there, is he compared insurance rates and changed his insurance company to a company that offered cheaper premiums. Something, he still does every year, to make sure he still is getting the best rate.

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

A couple of years ago I published the following tips. At the time everyone of them were very accurate. Today I thought I would revisit them. As some of them have changed in my personal life. Some for good reasons and some not.

The 25 Frugal Tips I Attempt to Follow are as follows:

I am in the process of changing my light bulbs to compact fluorescent lights (C.F.L.) bulbs to save money. (in my old house all of them were changed. Now I am starting over in an apartment.)

In the cold months I keep my furnace setting at 67 degrees. (nice idea, but with my wife's arthritis, arthroposy and other medical conditions)

I am in the process installing outlet insulation. These little babies, help prevent drafts around your outlets and light switches. My first planed major spending this year is getting insulation into my attic. The cost will be around $600 to buy about 20 rolls of insulation, but should save quite a bit in my heating bill. (I even did this in the apartment after I moved in. At least on the outside walls. Hope the owner was smart enough to put the insulation in when he built the place in the 80's.)

I pay nearly all my bills online eliminating the cost of stamps and checks.

Take my lunch to work. (since my current job is fast food, this would be a little difficult since my break-room is the public dinning area to. However, it is still a great idea that in most cases is a great idea to save money.)

Wash clothes in cold water to save on heat

Pick up money from the ground and save in my change jar

Round up in checkbook and place excess in savings at end of the month.

Put raises or bonuses in savings or apply towards debt

I only cut my hair 3-4 times a year...this last year I got a crew cut and was able to go six months before getting another hair cut. This year, I am thinking about doing the same only shaving it bald, and sort of get a feel what it will be like when I go completely bald. (LOL)

Go to thrift stores, yard sales, and auctions, rather then buying new.

Refrain as much as possible from buying things in vending machines

Buy generic (store brands) over name-brand (My wife also base this on taste)

Pay more than the minimum on my debts.

Re-use the plastic grocery bags as trash bags (especially in the smaller bathroom/bedroom cans). I do the same with paper bags in my kitchen trash can.

I use 1/2 of a dryer sheet per load.

Stock up on non-perishable sale items.

Train myself that my house is not a museum. I don't need to own everything cool that I discover. I can just admire it in the store. (I dream, may even blog about the desire and then work to save for some of these dream items.)

When weather is nice, I walk the 3 blocks to church rather then driving (I usually would have to park 2 blocks away anyway).I do the same thing (or bicycle to neighborhood meetings. (I now live 6 miles from church. So this is now impracticable.)

I pop my own popcorn, rather then buying microwave popcorn. I think it tastes better anyway.(My popcorn popper broke down and it is currently one of the dream items I am trying to save for.)

Don't go to movie theaters

Buy sodas from the supermarket when they’re on sale instead of from the office vending machine. (I have also started trying to limit myself to one soda a day).

Thank you for joining and becoming a fan of JMC Ministires. Now that you are a fan you will receive updates every month on what JMC Ministries is doing as well as exclusive free music downloads for just being a fan. If you would like to promote JMC Ministries click on the Street Team link and become a promoter for JMC.

"Ways to Reach the Lost with Internet Evangelist - Jeremy Caverley" Today Stacy talks to the founder of JMC Ministries, Jeremy Caverley about what he is doing for the kingdom of God online with his ministry. Stacy Lynn Harp, Active Christian Media

"Miranda Caverley interviewed On NBC 4 News out of Columbus Ohio about A suspicious U.S Census Worker that Came to her home on May 3rd 2010 wanting information on previous neighbors that had moved out of 2 of the homes on her road. As well as information on her landlord." NBC4i, Miranda Caverley Interview on NBC4i About Suspicous Census Worker

"Online PR News – 30-November-2009 – CHILLICOTHE, Ohio – radio show host Jeremy Caverley of JMC LIVE knows how to work a room … especially when it comes to the Internet chat room during his weekly shows on Tuesday nights at 8 pm EST." Alex Murashko, Social-minded JMC LIVE show stays current, chatty

I recently received an article from the Topeka Capital Journal. It seems that the Kansas Securities Commissioner is warning people of possible scams. Really it isn't anything new as the same information as been given by many reputable financial advisors.

Kansas' securities regulator says investors should be cautious about putting money into gold and should be on the lookout for scams.- Topeka Capital Journal

According to the Kansas Securities Commissioner investors are seeing a growing number of ads touting gold as safe. Gold prices are approaching record highs. However, historically the value of gold and related investments fluctuate more than the stock market. He said an investment in gold isn't foolproof.

Wilson also said investors have been harmed by promoters who pitch investment pools in precious metals or gold mines. Also, he said, when sellers offer to retain purchased gold in a secure vault and sell it when the price rises, the gold often doesn't exist.- Topeka Capital Journal

I am glad the commissioner issued this statement. I have often felt the "secure vault" claim was a con job. It is nice to have an expert agree with my thought on this.

Sunday, December 26, 2010

My wife and I ate Christmas Dinner alone this Christmas. We didn't have much for Christmas, but we had each other and that's what really matters. For dinner we had Turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn bread stuffing, green beans, cranberry sauce and deviled eggs. I also made Strawberry cookies (pictured) and 7-Layer cookies (not pictured), while my wife made no-bake cookies (pictured).

A nearby church stopped by Christmas day. It was the same church that my wife felt very uncomfortable attending. They were inviting everyone in the complex to attend their church. In addition they also gave us a New Testament and a $5 gift card to McDonald's. We will be able to use the New Testament in the Monday night ministry at church. In addition the $5 McDonald's gift card will be a real blessing on the those nights we are rushed.

We will have dinner Wednesday after work with her son and his fiance. Today they were in Dallas with some of her family. Hope each of you had a great Christmas. What did you and your families do for the holidays?

"Ways to Reach the Lost with Internet Evangelist - Jeremy Caverley" Today Stacy talks to the founder of JMC Ministries, Jeremy Caverley about what he is doing for the kingdom of God online with his ministry. Stacy Lynn Harp, Active Christian Media

"Miranda Caverley interviewed On NBC 4 News out of Columbus Ohio about A suspicious U.S Census Worker that Came to her home on May 3rd 2010 wanting information on previous neighbors that had moved out of 2 of the homes on her road. As well as information on her landlord." NBC4i, Miranda Caverley Interview on NBC4i About Suspicous Census Worker

Saturday, December 25, 2010

It's time once again for Freebies Saturday. Even though it is Christmas we are still posting the freebies we find. I make every attempt I can to make sure that the freebies, I present are legitimate offers, and not those "please spam" con-jobs. By legitimate I mean, all you have to do is fill out a simple form giving them your mailing address, so that you can receive the Free offer. They may ask 2-3 simple questions to verify you are eligible (like age, sex, etc). So lets get started shall we. Here are today's Free offers that I have found.

Green Magam® is a highly nutritious, mildly alkaline powder made from organic young barley grass juice. It contains vitamins, minerals, amino acids, enzymes, chlorophyll, carotenoids, flavonoids, and other valuable phytochemicals that support every system of the body.Receive your free order of Green Magma® samples.

One of the things I have heard about from other Austin bloggers, like Don't Mess With Taxes, is about what she called "wild" Christmas Trees. Apparently the folks around this area will stop along the highway and place decorations on the many trees growing along Loop 360 (aka Capital of Texas Highway). The decorated trees (Juniper Bushes) seem to be between, FM 2222 and Hwy 183, but it seems that the number of trees decorated grows from year to year. In a post from the blog, Life Distilled, it seems the local paper did some investigating with a tongue in cheek article (that's no longer available on their site - not even in the archives).

It’s a bit of a seasonal mystery, one that has attracted the attention of the Texas Department of Transportation, which maintains the right-of-way along the highway. (O.K., we admit we stirred things up when we called them.) Turns out this Austin display is, well, unlawful.

As someone, who loves Christmas and Christmas trees, I had to see this for myself. I just couldn't wait for the Christmas season, so that I could view these trees of love of the holiday. Not to mention sharing these trees with all of my readers.

Once, I heard that the trees, had begun to appear, I made the detour off my normal route down 183, to see the trees. While I was there taking these pictures, one of the local news teams arrived, wanting to interview me about my thoughts on the trees. I mentioned how it was unique to Austin and that it was a great sign of Christmas Spirit and giving, but all that was cut out for the partial sentence that they used in the story.

Hope you enjoy the picture(s) and video (below).

Have a very Merry Christmas!

Video from KVUE-TV (ABC Austin News), who interviewed me as I was taking these pictures Dec. 2, 2010.

Friday, December 24, 2010

"Ya know something? Life stinks." Chuck was talking to nobody in particular. The barhad few other patrons on this Christmas Eve, just a few old men nursing their beers, notpaying any attention to Chuck's complaints. Chuck didn't care if they were listening ornot, he was quite drunk, and continued talking."I don't see what's so special about Christmas. What's to be so happy about? Life stinks,Christmas or no Christmas. Who needs it anyway? If Christmas is so special why don'tyou buy me another drink, bartender? That would be a fine Christmas gift indeed."The bartender heard that, and walked over to where Chuck was slouched at the bar."No problem, pal. It is Christmas Eve, after all. I'll give you one on the house, but it'syour last one, and you'll have to keep your voice down too. Merry Christmas." He slid ashot of Wild Turkey in front of Chuck.Chuck only nodded, took his drink, and then resumed his oration."Yea, Merry Christmas. What's to be merry about? In the space of a year I've lost my job,my wife, my kids, and any dreams I might have had. Last week I wrecked my truck, andmy landlord threw me out yesterday. He was in the Christmas spirit, wasn't he?" Chuckslammed the shot down his throat before continuing. "To top off the holiday season, mysister called to tell me that my Dad probably won't live to the New Year, and I can't getback to see him. What the heck do I have to be merry about this Christmas?""Where does your dad live, son?"The voice came from Chuck's right. He turned to face a chubby little old man sporting agreat white beard, dressed in the trappings of a Salvation Army Santa Claus."When did you sneak in, Santa? Whatta ya doing here anyway? Oh, I get it. You're gonnaspend all that money you collect in them iron pots all day. If you're gonna have a drinkyourself, at least you could buy me one. It is Christmas, and you're Santa, ain't you?""Yes, Chuck, I am. But you don't really want a drink of whiskey for Christmas, do you?"The old man was chuckling."That's what I said I wanted, you old rummy. What kind of Santa are you, anyway?""Come now, Chuck. If there was one thing you could have for Christmas, what would itbe?"The whiskey was getting to Chuck, and he became somber. "If I could, I'd like to see myDad for one last Christmas. He may not make it another year, and I haven't spentChristmas with him in a lot of years. But I guess that's a moot point. It's alreadyChristmas Eve, he's fifteen hundred miles away in Ohio, my truck is trashed, and I'mbroke. Neither Santa nor the devil himself could get me home by Christmas day. If youwere a real good Santa, you'd give me a lift in that sleigh of yours, or put a couplethousand bucks into my stocking tonight. Right now, I'd just settle for another drink."The old Santa put his gloved hand on Chuck's shoulder. "Have faith, my boy. This isChristmas Eve, the night when miracles happen and dreams come true. The Lord blessedthe world with a miracle on that first Christmas, and many smaller miracles havehappened each Christmas since. You don't have to believe in Santa Claus, or reindeer, orbuy a lot of fancy gifts for everybody, you just have to believe in the spirit of Christmas;peace on earth and goodwill to men. Miracles can happen, boy, you just have to find thespirit of Christmas, and believe. Getting that chip off your shoulder would help a lot too."Chuck got up from his stool. "That's all well and good...you old geezer. If you're notgoing to buy me a drink, I'm gonna go to the little boys' room." Chuck stumbled off,mumbling to himself as he zeroed in on the restroom door. "Old rummy tells me I got achip on my shoulder. What does he know anyway, sitting on a street corner all day,ringing his bell? I got plenty of Christmas spirit...and if he'd buy me another drink I'dhave even more. Hee, hee..."When Chuck returned to his stool, the old man was nowhere in sight. "Hey bartender.Where did that old wino Santa Claus go?"The bartender looked at Chuck, puzzled. "What Santa Claus?""The one that was sitting next to me. I was talking to him. He was going to buy me adrink.""You must be pretty drunk, pal. There wasn't anyone sitting next to you. You were all byyourself, talking to yourself." The bartender's voice hardened, "I think you'd better leavenow. You're too drunk. Don't make me call the cops."Chuck stared at the bartender. "You must be blind, and you're definitely not in theChristmas spirit, are you?" He gave the bartender the universal sign of good luck, withhis finger, and stumbled out of the bar.Outside, the air was cold and flakes of snow fell lazily from the dark sky, reflecting thetwinkling lights of the big Christmas tree in Ripley Park. Chuck trudged south on Main,under the wreaths, garlands, decorations, and multi-colored lights that dressed the streetup for Christmas. He noticed the sign, pointing the way to the Raton Lions' City ofBethlehem display, as he approached Apache Avenue.As Chuck turned west on Apache, he realized that he'd never visited the popularChristmas display before. "In ten years, I've never been there. I guess now is a good timeto see what everyone fusses about. It's not like I've got anything better to do. Maybethere's a building or something up there that I could sleep in. Sure is cold."The cold mountain air and the long walk up the avenue to Climax Canyon left Chuckwinded, and somewhat sober by the time he reached the entrance to the City ofBethlehem. He passed through the archway under the shadow of the trumpeting angelsthat adorned each side, and continued up the dirt road into the canyon. He caught sight atonce of the nativity scenes that made up the City of Bethlehem, each made up of colorfulwooden images, brightly lit against the canyon walls. He stopped at each one and read thestoryboard that told of the scene's place in the story of the first Christmas. Glowingimages of angels stood guard on the rocky canyon walls. As he came to the scene ofChrist in the manger, he had to admit to himself that, while not high tech, the City ofBethlehem was indeed a special place.Chuck spotted an old railroad car around a bend of the canyon. He remembered that theLions used it for storage. "I'll bet it's unlocked. Looks like as good a place as any to catchsome sleep, without freezing to death." As he got closer to the car, he spotted the glow ofa campfire farther up the canyon. The scent of cedar smoke and roasting meat began tofilter into his nostrils. He could see the outlines of two people in the camp, and an Indianstyle teepee stood behind them.Chuck stopped in awe just outside the light of the small camp. The man inside the campwas magnificent. He was an Indian warrior; of what tribe Chuck could not guess. Hissleek body was clad in deerskins, and a huge buffalo robe draped his wide shoulders. Itnever occurred to Chuck that an Indian warrior, in the middle of Climax Canyon, in themiddle of the night, in the middle of winter 1996, was at all out of the ordinary. Itsomehow seemed that he belonged there.Sensing that someone was watching, the Indian turned and stared right at Chuck, hisblack eyes piercing through the night. Chuck tried to speak, but the words would notcome. He wasn't afraid, he just seemed to have forgotten the mechanics of speech. Thewarrior walked quickly towards Chuck, raising his coup-stick to strike, but Chuck stoodhis ground, frozen for no reason he could think of. The warrior stopped short, inchesaway from Chuck's bearded face. He looked fiercely into Chuck's eyes, then at once hisexpression softened. He lowered the coup-stick and took Chuck gently by the arm,leading him into the camp. Chuck followed unquestioningly. He and the warrior hadn'tshared a word, yet they seemed to understand that neither man meant the other any harm.As Chuck's eyes adjusted to the glow of the campfire, he noticed the young womansitting near the flames, tending to the rabbit roasting over them. She was a pretty thing;her skin was a golden brown, and her eyes were big and brown like a doe's. She paid nomind to Chuck, continuing to see to supper.The warrior gestured to Chuck to sit, and then turned to fill his beaver-fur clad pipe.Chuck watched in wonder as the warrior carefully, almost reverently filled the reddishstone pipe with tobacco. He then presented the pipe to the sky, the earth, and the fourdirections, before lighting it with an ember from the fire. When he was sure the tobaccowas well lit, he passed the pipe to Chuck, who clumsily repeated the ritual and took adeep drag off the pipe. The tobacco was pungent and harsh, but its smoke further calmedand relaxed him. The warrior nodded and smiled, taking back the pipe and drawing uponit himself.The woman started to rise with two clay bowls, but the warrior jumped to his feet andstopped her. He took the bowls and motioned for her to sit back down. She shot him alook that confirmed to Chuck that she was definitely his wife, and sat back down. Thewarrior returned, handing Chuck a bowl of rabbit stew, grinning sheepishly.Chuck ate the stew without really tasting it. He wondered who these people were, wherethey were from, and what the heck they were doing out here. As Chuck began to ponderthe question, a scream pierced the night. He looked to the Indian woman, as the warriorjumped up and ran to her side. As he held her in his arms, Chuck noticed for the first timethat she was pregnant...very pregnant. "Oh boy," he thought, "she's gonna have her babynow, isn't she?"The warrior was in a panic. This was obviously his first child, and nothing in hisupbringing had taught him the first thing about child birthing. That was a woman thing,something that warriors could not be bothered with. He loved his wife dearly, though,and he would have gladly traded his warrior status if only he could help his wife now. Hisblack eyes suddenly met Chuck's gaze, and Chuck understood the pleading look at once."Me?" he thought to himself, "What do I know about delivering babies?"They helped the young woman into the teepee, and down onto a buffalo robe. Chuckthought about what to do next. "Boil water, I've got to boil water." He ran out of the leantoand gathered snow, which he placed, into the pot over the fire. The warrior followed,understanding...sort of. Instead of going back into the lean-to, Chuck sat at the fire."Better to mind the water than to go back in there. Women have been doing this forcenturies without my help. Maybe it'll be all over before I get back in there."The scream of the woman dimmed Chuck's hopes. The warrior glanced at him, worry andconcern evident in his eyes. Chuck avoided his stare and turned his attention to the potover the fire. The woman screamed again. Chuck grabbed a ladle and stirred the pot ofmelting snow furiously. He could feel the warrior's eyes on his back. As another screamtore the night, Chuck felt the grasp of the warrior's hand on his shoulder. He could stallno longer. He rose and walked into the lean-to, praying as he went.As Chuck knelt down beside the young woman, he was suprised to see the form of a babyin her arms. She had done it herself! Chuck's elation was short lived as he noticed thesobs of the woman, and the stillness of the baby. Without hesitation, he reached for thebaby, held him up by the legs, and slapped his backside sharply. To his relief andamazement, the baby burst into a wailing cry. Chuck and the baby's mother were sodelighted they decided to join him, and tears of joy flowed freely.The warrior burst into the teepee. He had heard the cries of the baby, but the tears comingfrom Chuck and his wife confused him. As he cautiously moved forward, his wife placedthe baby in her arms and presented him to her husband. He realized then what the tearswere about, as his own eyes became moist. He took the child into his arms, and held himproudly. Sensing that the new family should have some time alone, Chuck stepped out ofthe teepee and snuggled down into a warm buffalo robe.As Chuck lay in the warmness of the buffalo robe, the warrior emerged from the teepeeand knelt beside him. The warrior reached into the deerskin pouch around his neck, andremoved a small object. He placed a small onyx coyote into Chuck's hand and noddedwith gratitude. Chuck smiled and reached his right hand out to the warrior, and theyshook. The warrior rose and returned to the teepee as Chuck placed the coyote in hispocket, and settled down to a contented sleep. For the first time in his life Chuckunderstood the true meaning of Christmas, and he realized that the Christmas spirit neednot be limited to only one day a year.Chuck was exhausted, and he soon fell into a deep sleep. He dreamed that he was glidingthrough the night air in a sleigh, at the side of the old Santa he met in the bar.*****"Chuck, wake up." The sound of his father's voice echoed through his head. Then a sharpblow to his ribs woke him to the glare of the morning sun."I said wake up, boy. I thought you was dead."Chuck looked up into the deeply lined face of his father, confused. "Naw Dad, I was onlysleeping...DAD!! Where am I? How did I get here? What the...""I was just going to ask you the same thing, son. What are you doing sleeping here on theporch? You could have just knocked. I don't know how you got here, but by God I'm darnhappy that you are. It's been a long time... too long."The words of the old Santa in the bar popped into Chuck's mind. "Miracles can happen,boy, you just have to find the spirit of Christmas, and believe."Chuck looked at his father and smiled. "I got pretty drunk last night, Pop, and I don't havethe slightest idea how I got here, but I'm glad to be here too. Merry Christmas, Dad...I'vemissed you."He could see the tears welling up in the old man's eyes. "Let's go inside, Pop. I'll cookChristmas dinner for you, and we'll watch some football; just like we used to."Chuck put his arm around the old man and helped him hobble into the house.Later that afternoon, Chuck and his father relaxed in the living room, watching footballon the television. They were discussing the loss of the Cleveland Browns football team toBaltimore when the newsbreak interrupted the game on TV. The newsman wasinterviewing a wild-eyed teenager wearing a Plain Dealer newspaper bag around hisshoulder."I swear it's true, mister. I saw Santa Claus land his sleigh right here on this street. He hadanother fella riding with him, but he was sleeping. I wouldn't lie about something likethat."Chuck's father pointed to the TV. "By God, that's my paper boy. What's wrong with thesekids today, anyway...Santa Claus landing here on our street. Those drugs are going todestroy this country."Chuck didn't answer. The previous night's dream replayed in his mind."What's the matter with you, boy? You're as red as a beet. Did you drink too much winewith your dinner?""No, Pop. I'm OK. I think I'll get some air, though." He walked out of the house into thechill of the Cleveland evening. His hands were cold, so he stuffed them into his pockets.He felt an unfamiliar object in his pocket, and pulled it out to see what it was. It was anonyx coyote. Chuck smiled and continued walking down the street with the coyoteclutched in his hand. He remembered that native Americans called the coyote the"trickster". He knew that he'd been blessed with not one, but two miracles the previousnight, but he also knew that nobody would ever believe him if he told them about it.Chuck knew, and that was all that mattered. As he turned to return to his father's house,the clanging of a Christmas bell, rung by some distant Salvation Army Santa Claus,echoed through the night.

A picture could never do justice to downtown Raton at Christmastime. Traveling north onMain, one is treated to the twinkling glow of multi-colored Christmas lights lining thestreet and adorning the well-kept storefronts, all nestled under the imposing, snowcoveredmountains and mesas that separate New Mexico from Colorado. At this late houron Christmas Eve the view was unspoiled by the presence of people and vehicles. Mostfolks were at home with family and friends, celebrating and looking forward to the magicof Christmas morning.Despite the charm of downtown Raton, Daryl Washburn wasn't in a mood to appreciate itas he trudged up Main past the Christmas tree in Ripley Park. He was having a hard timegetting into the Christmas spirit this year. Daryl, along with his wife and twin daughters,had moved to Raton almost two years earlier. He had taken a job at the Cimarronunderground coal mining operation, but was recently laid off when the company shut themine down. Daryl had been looking for work ever since, living off of his severance payand doing any odd jobs he could find. His truck needed a transmission, he was a monthbehind with the rent, the kids were outgrowing clothing and shoes rapidly, and his wifeSara had recently quit working at the Loaf-n-Jug because of the advanced state of herpregnancy. It was going to be a lean Christmas for the Washburns.As Daryl turned up towards Sugarite and the north part of town, he stopped to adjust thearmload of packages he was carrying. These packages were all the presents theWashburns would get this Christmas. He'd gotten a winter coat and a doll for each of thetwins, slippers and a ten-dollar pair of earrings for Sara, and a small turkey for Christmasdinner."Not much, but better than nothing." he mumbled to himself as he continued on his waytowards home. He had hoped to buy more, but he'd lost the money to do so. It was hisown fault. Daryl had figured on saving a few bucks on a Christmas tree by just cutting hisown from up on the Old Pass Road. The tree turned out to be a very expensive oneindeed, after the property owner had him arrested and the judge socked him with a threehundred dollar fine."If it weren't for bad luck, I'd have no luck at all," he'd told the judge.Despite his current run of bad luck, Daryl refused to let go of his lifelong dream. Hewanted to own his own small business. Ever since high school Daryl had been interestedin computers and the way they would change the way Americans lived, worked, andplayed. He figured that with the right computer equipment and software, he could offer avariety of services from his own home, starting off part-time as he worked a regular joband building up to a full time endeavor.Back home in Kentucky, he had followed in his father's footsteps and worked in the coalmines. Unfortunately, the coal mining business back east was mediocre, at best. Just as hewould begin to earn enough money to start saving for his dream, the lay-offs wouldcome. When he did return to work, it was all he could manage just to pay the bills thathad piled up while he was laid off. He jumped at the chance to work in the New Mexicomine. He worked hard, was well liked, and saved every penny he could. Just as he'dcaught up on paying moving expenses, Sara discovered she was pregnant again. Then theCimarron mine closed down, and Daryl was out of work again.As Daryl made his way through the crisp Raton winter night he didn't notice the gaydecorations, the twinkling lights, or the sweet smell of burning cedar and pinon thatwisped up from every fireplace. His mind was so cluttered by his own problems he didn'teven notice the struggling figures under the railroad underpass, until he was right on topof them. A feeble cry for help jolted his senses back to the here and now."Help me somebody! Please, don't do this."Not ten feet in front of Daryl was an old man dressed as Santa Claus, lying on the ground,pleading with three youths who were kicking him as he lay defenseless."Come on, old man. Give us your money or we'll hurt you bad.""Yeah, you fat old coot. Give up the cash.""Please, I don't have any money. Leave me alone. I'm late; I've got to get going. Don'tyou boys believe in Santa Claus?""Sure, we believe in Santa, don't we guys? You'd better believe in God, cause your gonnaneed him if you don't hand over your wallet." The young thug punctuated his words witha kick to the old man's ribs.As the ugly scene unfolded before his eyes, all of Daryl's sadness and frustration turnedto rage. "Things like this don't happen in Raton, especially not on Christmas Eve," hethought angrily. He dropped his packages and rushed toward the old man and hisassailants."Hey! You punks leave that old man alone."Startled, the youths turned to face Daryl. While the three only looked to be only sixteenor seventeen, their eyes had the hollow look of hungry wolves closing in for the kill.Daryl had fought his share of fights, but a chill ran down his spine as he wondered if hecould handle this bunch alone. The old man in the Santa suit didn't look to be in muchshape to help out, and Daryl thought furiously for a way to get out of this in one piece.He thought, "When in doubt, bluff"."I've had a bad day, boys. Why don't you just go on your way and save me the trouble ofgiving you the whipping your daddies should have."The youths only laughed. "What have we here, a concerned citizen? Why don't you justkeep on walking, mister? Hurry, before we stomp on you like we did old Santa Bumthere."The closest youth let fly a large ball of spit that found its mark on Daryl's face."That tears it..." Daryl launched his right fist directly into the nose of the spitter, causinghim to fall to the ground holding his bleeding, broken, nose between his hands. Darylthen turned to face the other two thugs, but before he could lash out again he felt a sharppain shoot through his head, then another, and another, and another."So much for bluffing...," he thought as the world went black.*****As Daryl began to regain his senses, he felt like every part of his body was in pain. Hishead felt like ten thousand little men were using jackhammers on it, from the inside. Hetried to get up, but collapsed as the world began to spin around him."By golly, I was starting to think that you were dead, son."Daryl opened his eyes, and once they regained focus he saw the face of a white beardedold man studying him. The old man's white hair and beard were matted with blood fromhis nose and split lip. His blue eyes twinkled with the reflected light of the street-lamps,though the tissue around them was red and swollen."Wha... what happened. I feel as bad as you look.""Just take it easy son. Those boys gave you a pretty good beating. Sorry, but you don'tlook so good yourself, you kinda remind me of ten miles of bad road." The old manchuckled, then became serious again. "You saved me from those whippersnappers, and Isure thank you. I'm sorry you had to take a beating on my account. You broke that onefella's nose pretty good, and I'll bet the others really hurt their hands on your head." Hechuckled again."Don't make me laugh, old man. It hurts too much. Who the hell are you anyway?""Don't you recognize me?"Daryl sat up and studied the old man. He had taken a bit of a beating himself, and his redSanta suit was soiled and torn."Sorry, I don't. Maybe if you took off the Santa outfit."The old man's massive belly shook as he laughed. "It's no costume, son. I'm the realthing. I'm Kris Kringle.""Yeah right. I'm serious, laughing kind of hurts right now. Help me up and I'll walk youto the police station.""Oh, no, no. That won't do at all. I've still got a lot of ground to cover tonight. I'm late, Imust get going.""Don't be silly. The police department is just a few blocks away. Let me just get my stuffand I'll walk over there with you. I'm O.K. Nothing broken or anything."Daryl turned to retrieve his packages."I'm sorry, old timer. Things like this usually don't happen around here. Those youngpunks should be.... Wait! Where's my packages! Those little so and so's stole myChristmas presents and my turkey!"Daryl's hand shot to his rear pocket. "They stole my wallet too! Of all the bad luck. Iknew I should have minded my own business. Did you see which way they went?"No answer.Daryl turned to face the old Santa. "I asked you if you saw which way they... Old man?"Daryl's gaze fell on an empty street. The old man in the Santa suit was nowhere to beseen."Just great. I get my butt whipped, my wallet stolen, lose my Christmas presents andChristmas dinner, and that crazy old man just wanders off. OLD MAN, COME BACK!"Daryl hollered in frustration.Once he realized that the Santa was indeed gone, he began to rant, rave, and hit theconcrete sides of the underpass. I can't repeat his words in mixed company. Suddenly,Daryl's ranting words were drowned out by a piercing, WHOOP, WHOOP. As Darylturned towards the sound, the bright beam of the police spotlight blinded him."Now you guys show up."*****Later, the police cruiser pulled up slowly in front of Daryl's house."Thanks for the ride, guy. I appreciate it."The police officer leaned towards the passenger side door."No problem. Sorry about the hard time we gave you tonight. You've got to admit, youwere acting pretty crazy, and your story sounded even crazier. Santa getting mugged… Ican't remember the last time Raton had a mugging, let alone on Santa Claus. MerryChristmas to you.""Yeah, some Christmas. Thanks again, officer."Daryl's mood had improved somewhat, but as he approached his front door he was filledwith sadness. Christmas was ruined. He'd lost his presents for Sara and the kids, he'd lostChristmas dinner, and he'd lost the little money he had left."Darn crazy old man probably deserved to be mugged. Should have just minded my ownbusiness."Sara was awake. The police had called and assured her that he was all right, but Darylcould tell that she had been crying. Daryl fell into her arms."I'm sorry babe."His wife smiled sadly, "No use crying over spilled milk. Come on to bed and tell me allabout it."Sara and Daryl checked in on the kids before retiring to their bedroom. Daryl thought tohimself how sweet and innocent his daughters looked."It's not fair that a bunch of young punks and a crazy old man should ruin theirChristmas. It's just not fair."As he lay in his bed, Sara stroking the hair on his forehead, Daryl relived the events ofthe night. Sara was silent after he finished. For a moment neither spoke, then Daryl brokedown and began to cry."I'm so sorry, Sara. I've ruined Christmas. When will I ever learn? I'm just a born loser.You and the kids would be better off without me."Sara took Daryl's head into her small hands and looked him in the eye. Daryl could seeanger behind her ocean blue eyes, and he turned away."Here it comes," he thought to himself."You listen here, Mr. Daryl Washburn. You're no loser and I love you very much. I won'thave such talk. You're a good husband and father. The twins adore you and I hope thislittle package I'm carrying now will be a boy... and I hope he grows up to be just like hisdaddy. You did the right thing tonight. You couldn't just stand by and watch a poorhelpless old man get beaten and robbed. I'm proud of you, and I'll not tolerate any moreself-pity. You didn't ruin Christmas, and neither did that old man or those terrible younghoodlums. Christmas has nothing to do with money, or turkeys, or presents. You're safe,you have a family that loves you, and we're together. What more could anyone ask for?"Daryl raised his head and looked at his wife, tears welling in her eyes, proudly defiant.She never looked more beautiful."I love you, Sara.""Turn out the light, darling. Tomorrow is another day."*****The excited screams of Daryl's twin daughters woke him after it seemed he had just fallenasleep."Daddy! Mommy! Wake up! It's Christmas!" Molly and Millie jumped into the bed, thenback out, too excited to stay still."O.K. girls, go on downstairs. Daddy and I will be down in a minute. We need to talk toyou."Millie ran out, Molly close on her heals."Can we open our presents, Mommy?" they pleaded on the way out.The girls were gone in a flash, saving Daryl and Sara the difficult answer."I guess we'd better get it over with."Arms around each other, Daryl and Sara walked down the stairs, each dreading having toface their daughters empty handed on Christmas morning. Daryl's heart was almost tornto shreds when he saw the confused, worried look on the faces of his girls as theysearched the house for presents they knew had to be somewhere."Santa didn't come, did he?" Millie's eyes were filling with tears.Molly was more optimistic. "Maybe he's playing a trick on us. Kinda like the EasterBunny does." Her voice didn't sound confident.Daryl started to speak, but the words wouldn't come. Sara took charge, wiping her tearsoaked eyes. "Girls, let's sit down and talk..."The ringing of the doorbell gave Sara a reprieve."Who could that be? Get the door Daryl, I need to put something on." She streaked up thestairs.When Daryl opened the door, he almost had a stroke. The police officer who had helpedhim the night before was standing on the porch, and he seemed to have the entire policedepartment with him… and the fire department as well."Uh... Merry Christmas officer... er... officers. Can I help you?" Daryl's voice was meek,indeed."Sorry to bother you at home, sir. But we figured you would want this stuff."He handed Daryl a few packages."I believe that these were the items stolen from you last night."Daryl was dumbfounded. "How did you find them?""Well sir, the punks that stole it from you turned themselves in, and brought their lootwith them. It seems they had a good night robbing citizens and looting businesses, butmet up with some guy dressed in a Santa suit who scared the bejabbers out of them. Theywere so scared of the guy that they confessed to about three dozen robberies andburglaries, committed over that last month. They asked us to protect them by puttingthem in jail. Go figure.""Daryl, why is the whole police department here?" Sara joined her husband at the door,her eyes wide with wonder."And the fire department too, ma'am," piped the policeman, "We needed some help ingetting all your other stuff over here."Now Daryl was confused. "What stuff? This is all I had, except for a turkey.""We got your turkey too, sir. It wasn't in such good shape though, so these guys and I allchipped in to get you this one." The officer snapped his fingers, and a young firemanstepped forward and handed Daryl a thirty-pound Butterball.Sara's eyes were beginning to get moist again. "Thank you all so much, but what is allthat other stuff?""Well ma'am, that's a funny thing. We figured that you all needed a few more toys foryour kids, so we went to load up the SWAT wagon with our leftover Toys-for-Tots stuff.When we opened the door of the wagon, we found a bunch of Christmas packages, allwith your names on them. The darn wagon was so full of stuff; we had to call the firedepartment to help us deliver it to you. I don't even want to think about how it all gotthere. We see lots of weird stuff in our line of work. I quit asking questions a long timeago."As Daryl and Sara stood and stared, jaws dropped to their chests, the police and firemenformed a bucket line and began passing brightly wrapped packages to each other, andinto the house. Molly and Millie began tearing the wrappings off at once, their delightedscreams filling the paper-strewn air. It took most of the morning to unwrap all of thepresents. There were toys and clothing for the twins, as well as for the little one on theway. There were grown-up presents as well. Sara got the set of books she wanted, thecomplete works of Stephen King. Daryl got a state-of-the-art computer, along with aprinter, assorted software, and a book: How to Make Money at Home With Your PC.Daryl's dream seemed within his reach once again."Yes, tomorrow is another day," he thought to himself.*****Later that evening, Daryl laid back in the easy chair. The combination of all theexcitement of the last day, and a great turkey dinner, had exhausted him. He didn't try torationalize the events of the day… that could be done later, after a good night's sleep. Fornow, he was content at admitting that Christmas was indeed a magical day. He got up andwent to the kitchen to turn off the lights. Sara had already gone up to bed, and he wasanxious to snuggle up in a nice warm bed. He flipped the switch and returned to theliving room."I told you I was running late."The voice made Daryl jump. Sitting in Daryl's easy chair, smoking a pipe, was a chubbylittle old man with a white beard. His red suit was soiled and torn. His eyes had a twinklethat made Daryl recognize him at once."You'd better go up to your wife now, son."Before Daryl could speak a word, he was gone. He rubbed his eyes, not sure of theiraccuracy."I'd better get some sleep," he mumbled as he trudged up the stairs, checked in on thegirls and went to his bedroom. Sara was still awake, gazing out the window at the moonrising over Johnson Mesa."This is a magical town," she whispered."Yes, it is."Sara turned to face him. There was a mysterious glow in her eyes. "There's one morepresent for you.""You mean Molly and Millie missed one?""No dear." Her eyes were laughing."You mean...?"Daryl wasn't that tired. He reached out to embrace her.Sara began to giggle."Yes. I think it's time to go to the hospital."

Thank You

Finance

We have been in the title loans industry for over 4 years and have helped people get out of tight situations, ranging from hospital bills to starting new businesses. We are here to help you get the money you need until you can get yourself back on track.